A West Midlands Police officer has been dismissed without notice after assaulting a man at a private members club while off duty. PC Clayton, 41, was recorded on CCTV launching a violent attack that left his victim unconscious at the Belbroughton Club in High Street.
Despite being a highly experienced officer aware of the law, Clayton ignored his duties and engaged in a brutal assault during the early hours of November 3, 2024. The incident was described by Chief Constable Craig Guildford as a blatant disregard for the law, severely undermining public trust in the police.
Clayton admitted to assault occasioning actual bodily harm at Worcester Crown Court in October 2025 and was sentenced to a 12-month community order, including 150 hours of unpaid work and £350 compensation. His actions constituted gross misconduct, breaching the policing standards of professional behaviour.
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The misconduct panel highlighted that Clayton’s temper overtook his judgment, leading him to remove his coat and strike the victim despite having no immediate threat. The assault knocked the man unconscious and caused alarm among other club patrons.
Guildford emphasized the seriousness of an officer committing a criminal act both on and off duty, stating that such behaviour directly damages public confidence in the police service. Clayton’s prior record was exemplary, with no previous disciplinary issues, making this breach even more significant.
Following the accelerated misconduct hearing held on November 27, Clayton was found guilty of discreditable conduct and promptly dismissed. The decision reflects the police force’s commitment to uphold professionalism and accountability at all times, ensuring that officers respect the law they are sworn to enforce.